Perry closed yet another deal this week, but this one was for an additional 37.5 acres on the southwest corner of his Atlanta studios. Nearly all of the land use will be dedicated to a new entertainment district and open to the public.

As of now the development plans call for a grocery store, restaurants, shopping, midrise residential units – likely four floors of apartments and/or condos – above the shops, and multiple theaters, including a mega 3,500-seat venue.

“The theater will be a destination,” Perry said. “It brings me back to my roots in theater. I can also do my own live shows there.”

The new destination will also have a Tyler Perry Studios museum, which will serve as a starting point for tours of the larger 330 acre lot.

In the works almost since he broke ground on the original Fort Mac studio lot, Perry is most proud of what the new development will mean for the surrounding neighborhoods, providing employment opportunities for the community.

“It’s an incredible moment in time for the community and the neighborhood,” Perry said. “I’m excited to be able to bring this to fruition. It’s opening up a whole new area to the community. It will give people an opportunity to take pride in their community.”

The purchase coincided with a deal for the balance of land at Fort MacPherson bought by religious leader, author, and filmmaker, T.D. Jakes. Perry commented on his new neighbor. ”I’m looking forward to collaborating with my friend T.D. Jakes on his separate but adjacent project and I also want to thank Governor Kemp and Mayor Bottoms for their continued efforts to make Atlanta a better place.”

Atlanta Mayor, Keisha Lance Bottoms said the new developments will, “mark another monumental chapter in the history of Fort Mac. Thank you to Tyler Perry and Bishop TD Jakes for their vision and investment in the Southwest Atlanta community. The positive impact will be felt for generations to come.”

Perry’s project is anticipated to be completed within 3 to 5 years.